Earthquakes risk in Texas

Earthquake risk in Texas

Texas is not typically associated with earthquakes, but the state does experience them. According to the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program, most of Texas has a relatively low earthquake hazard, which is why the state is rated level 1 out of 5 for this risk. However, several areas have a history of felt earthquakes, and some have seen increased activity in recent years.

The most earthquake-prone regions include:

• West Texas – The Rio Grande Rift and the Permian Basin have produced some of the state's largest earthquakes, including the 1931 Valentine earthquake (the largest recorded in Texas) and a magnitude 5.4 earthquake near Mentone in 2022.
• The Texas Panhandle – This area has experienced moderate earthquakes, such as the 1947 and 1957 events near Amarillo.
• North Texas – Parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, including Azle and Irving, have experienced swarms of small to moderate earthquakes, some linked to wastewater injection and oil and gas activities.

Earthquakes can happen at any time of year—there is no earthquake season. While most Texas earthquakes are small and cause little to no damage, moderate events can shake homes and cause cracks. The USGS notes that induced earthquakes (those triggered by human activities) have become more common in parts of Texas, particularly in the Permian Basin and North Texas.

How it affects homes

Because earthquakes are infrequent in most of Texas, many homes are not designed or retrofitted to resist seismic shaking. Typical home damage from a moderate earthquake can include:

• Cracks in walls, ceilings, and foundations
• Broken windows and fallen objects
• Chimney damage or collapse, especially in older masonry chimneys
• Shifted or toppled water heaters, bookcases, and televisions
• In severe cases, structural damage or partial collapse

Standard homeowners insurance policies in Texas typically do not cover earthquake damage. You usually need to purchase a separate earthquake policy or endorsement. Some private insurers offer this coverage, but deductibles are often high—typically a percentage of your home's insured value. Renters insurance also generally excludes earthquakes. If you live in a higher-risk area, such as West Texas or North Texas, it's worth discussing coverage with your insurance agent. The FEMA Earthquake Safety page and Ready.gov both recommend reviewing your policy and considering earthquake coverage.

How to prepare your home

Even in a low-risk state, a few simple steps can make your home safer during an earthquake. The Texas Division of Emergency Management and FEMA recommend the following mitigation measures:

1. Secure heavy furniture and appliances. Anchor bookcases, tall cabinets, and TVs to wall studs. Use flexible straps or brackets.
2. Brace your water heater. Strap the water heater to wall studs and install flexible gas and water connectors to prevent leaks and fires.
3. Retrofit your foundation. If you own an older home with a raised foundation, consider bolting sill plates to the foundation and bracing cripple walls. Consult a licensed contractor.
4. Reinforce masonry chimneys. Unreinforced brick chimneys can collapse during shaking. Have a professional evaluate and reinforce your chimney.
5. Install automatic gas shut-off valves. These devices can stop gas flow if they detect strong shaking, reducing fire risk.
6. Create an emergency plan. Identify safe spots in each room (under sturdy tables, away from windows) and practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On with your family.
7. Build an emergency kit. Include water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, medications, and important documents.
8. Know how to turn off utilities. Teach family members how to shut off gas, water, and electricity if needed.

These steps are relatively inexpensive and can reduce damage from other hazards like high winds and floods as well.

Frequently asked questions

Does Texas really have earthquakes?

Yes. While most Texas earthquakes are too small to feel, the state has experienced moderate events. The USGS records hundreds of small earthquakes in Texas each year, mostly in West Texas, the Panhandle, and North Texas. Some of these are natural, while others are induced by human activities such as wastewater injection.

Is earthquake insurance required in Texas?

No, Texas law does not require homeowners to carry earthquake insurance. However, standard policies exclude earthquake damage, so if you want coverage, you must buy a separate policy or endorsement. Given the low overall risk, many homeowners choose not to purchase it, but those in active areas should weigh the cost against potential damage.

What should I do during an earthquake in Texas?

Follow the same guidance as anywhere else: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Get under a sturdy table or desk, protect your head and neck, and stay put until shaking stops. If you're outdoors, move away from buildings, streetlights, and power lines. If driving, pull over to a clear spot and set the parking brake. The Ready.gov earthquake page has detailed instructions.

Official resources

• Texas Division of Emergency Management – State agency for emergency preparedness and response.
• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program – Real-time earthquake maps, hazard maps, and research.
• Ready.gov – Earthquakes – Federal guidance on staying safe before, during, and after an earthquake.
• FEMA Earthquake Safety – Mitigation and risk management resources.